Jonathan Groff, the Tony Award-winning actor known for his roles in Broadway hits like "Spring Awakening" and "Hamilton," recently appeared as a guest on Amy Poehler's podcast "Good Hang." The episode, released on February 10, 2026, features Groff discussing his early acting experiences, personal connections to his hometown, and reflections on his professional journey.
In the conversation, Groff opened up about childhood memories, including playing Dorothy from "The Wizard of Oz" at age 4. He also shared unique sensory associations, such as smelling horse manure from his Lancaster County roots when listening to the "Company" cast recording.
The podcast episode has generated buzz online, with listeners praising the relaxed and engaging dynamic between Groff and Poehler, a comedian and actress famous for "Parks and Recreation" and "Saturday Night Live."
Podcast Highlights and Key Discussions
During the interview, Groff gave shout-outs to Lancaster County institutions that shaped his early life, including the Lancaster Public Library, Fulton Theatre, Ephrata Performing Arts Center, and local news station WGAL.
He reflected on his breakthrough role in "Spring Awakening," admitting he initially doubted his talent to portray Melchior but felt a "primal" urge to take on the part anyway. This candid admission ties into broader themes of self-doubt and perseverance in the performing arts.
Groff and Poehler also touched on lighter moments, such as watching YouTube videos together during the recording, including one about "gay Everest," which added a humorous, relatable element to the episode.
The episode is available on platforms like Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and iHeart, allowing fans to access the full conversation.
Groff's Reflections on 'Spring Awakening' and Career Milestones
Groff's discussion of "Spring Awakening" resonates with his long-standing connection to the musical, which premiered on Broadway in 2006. In past interviews, he has described the role as transformative, influencing his personal growth, including his coming-out journey.
The show, which explores themes of adolescence, repression, and awakening, earned Groff a Tony nomination and helped launch his career. A 2022 HBO documentary on the musical's reunion concert featured Groff alongside co-star Lea Michele, highlighting its enduring impact.
Groff noted in earlier reflections that "Spring Awakening" has saved and changed lives, addressing issues like teenage angst and societal pressures that remain relevant today.
His friendship with Michele, forged during the original production, was also spotlighted in the documentary, emphasizing the supportive bonds formed in theater.
Broadway Success with 'Just In Time'
Currently, Groff stars as Bobby Darin in the jukebox musical "Just In Time" at Broadway's Circle in the Square Theatre. The production, which opened in April 2025, has been a commercial hit, driven largely by Groff's performance.
Recent box office figures show the show grossing over $1.34 million in a single week last October, setting new highs with sold-out performances and average ticket prices around $235.
However, during Groff's one-week vacation in January 2026, grosses dropped significantly to $544,378, underscoring his draw as a leading man. Understudy Matt Magnusson filled in, maintaining strong seat occupancy at 92%.
The musical celebrates Darin's hits like "Beyond the Sea," with Groff recently performing the song on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" to promote the show.
Critics have called it an "electrifying experience" and a "wondrous musical," praising its immersive style and Groff's portrayal.
Why Groff's Story Matters
Groff's podcast appearance comes at a pivotal time in his career, blending nostalgia for past roles with current achievements. His openness about doubts in "Spring Awakening" offers inspiration for aspiring performers facing similar challenges.
A December 2025 article in The Guardian detailed how Groff's work motivated one individual to overcome a stammer, illustrating the broader cultural impact of his performances.
In the podcast, Groff and Poehler discussed persistence in the industry, with Poehler noting that "if you stick around long enough, things come back." This message resonates amid discussions of career longevity in entertainment.
Social media reactions to the episode highlight its appeal, with fans sharing clips and personal takeaways, boosting its visibility on platforms like X (formerly Twitter).
What Happens Next for Jonathan Groff
Groff is scheduled to perform his final show in "Just In Time" on March 29, 2026. Producers have not announced a replacement, though industry rumors suggest a high-profile actor may step in.
Tickets for remaining performances are available through official channels, with the show continuing at Circle in the Square Theatre.
Looking ahead, Groff's diverse resume—including TV roles in "Mindhunter" and voice work in "Frozen"—positions him for potential new projects in theater, film, or television.
His podcast episode may spark renewed interest in his earlier works, such as the "Spring Awakening" documentary, available on HBO.
As Broadway navigates post-pandemic recovery, stars like Groff continue to drive attendance and cultural conversations.
This appearance reinforces Groff's status as a versatile and relatable figure in entertainment, bridging Broadway traditions with modern media formats.
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